Facial skeletal surgery in the aging face

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Aging and Rejuvenation

Background:

• Facial aging involves skeletal changes impacting aesthetics and function.
• Surgical interventions can address age-related facial deformities.
• Understanding skeletal dynamics is crucial for effective facial rejuvenation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review surgical techniques for facial skeleton modification in facial rejuvenation.
• To outline appropriate methods for different types of facial disharmonies.
• To highlight considerations for managing age-related skeletal changes.

Main Methods:

• Review of alloplastic augmentation techniques.
• Evaluation of on-lay grafting procedures.
• Analysis of osteotomy and bony fragment repositioning for facial contouring.
• Consideration of soft tissue response in aging patients.

Main Results:

• Alloplastic augmentation and on-lay grafts are effective for minor occlusal disharmonies.
• Osteotomy and repositioning are necessary for extensive facial deformities.
• Skeletal reductions require careful planning due to inelastic soft tissues in patients over 30.

Conclusions:

• Surgical modification of the facial skeleton is a valuable tool for facial rejuvenation.
• The choice of technique depends on the extent and nature of the deformity.
• Age-related changes in soft tissue elasticity necessitate cautious surgical planning.